Textbook Question
For each of the following compounds, determine whether the cis isomer or the trans isomer is more stable.
a.
b.
c.
4. Alkanes and Cycloalkanes
Equatorial Preference
Struggling with Organic Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Draw the MOST STABLE conformation of cis-1-tert-butyl-4-methylcyclohexane.
A
B
C
D
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the structure of cyclohexane and understand that it can exist in different conformations, primarily chair conformations, which are the most stable due to minimized steric strain.
Recognize that in cis-1-tert-butyl-4-methylcyclohexane, both substituents (tert-butyl and methyl) are on the same side of the cyclohexane ring.
Consider the size of the substituents: the tert-butyl group is larger than the methyl group, so it should be placed in the equatorial position to minimize steric hindrance.
Draw the cyclohexane ring in a chair conformation and place the tert-butyl group in the equatorial position at carbon 1. Since the compound is cis, the methyl group at carbon 4 should also be placed equatorially on the same side of the ring.
Verify that both substituents are on the same side (cis) and that the larger group (tert-butyl) is equatorial, ensuring the most stable conformation is achieved.
4:02mWatch next
Master Equatorial Preference with a bite sized video explanation from Johnny
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Equatorial Preference practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations